The Finch currently supports Python using Jython, a variant of Python that allows easy access and importation of Java libraries.

Download

Visit the Downloads page to choose the Finch package appropriate to your IDE and OS.

Documentation

As Jython Finch programs simply import the Finch Java libraries, the Finch Javadocs describe the methods that can be used in Jython.  The docs cover the methods used to control the Finch, read Finch sensor data, read data from RSS feeds, grab image data from webcams, and control computer speakers.  

We also provide tutorials of how to compile, create, and run programs for the Finch in several different IDEs.  

IDE & OS Support

A version of JES (the Jython Environment for Students) has been created which includes the Finch software package. This is probably the easiest way to use Jython with the Finch. We also have instructions for using the Finch with command line Jython, Eclipse, and Netbeans. Instructions for creating, compiling, and running programs for all of these environments are available.

Example files

Three examples demonstrate the functionality of the Finch in Jython.  These examples specifically cover how to control the Finch's wheels, buzzer, and LED; how to read obstacle sensor data, and how to use data from an RSS feed.  A more complete example set is available in the Java software package.  

Structure of the Software Package

The software package folder has three top-level folders:

SourceFiles - Location of the finch.jar library, examples (in the "Code" subfolder), and libraries for webcam support

Javadocs - Location of the documentation

Licenses - Licensing information for the download and for third-party libraries

In the case of IDE-specific downloads, additional folders may exist containing data for the IDE project files.  

Known Issues

LTI-Civil, the third-party library used to grab image data from webcams, does not work in a 64-bit OS.